eharmony vs. match.com: Head-to-Head Comparison

When it comes to online dating, eharmony and match.com are two of the biggest contenders in the UK. But which site is the better choice for you? We’ve tested both of them to help you choose the one that’s right for you. Let the fight of the heavyweights commence!

1. User Base

match.com and eharmony have the largest database of singles in the UK, easily beating all the other leading dating sites. match.com has around 3 million members in the UK, while eharmony has about half a million more users, with 3.5 million. eharmony just edges into the lead. Winner: eharmony

2. Demographics

eharmony has an even male/female split and users tend to be those seeking serious long-term relationships. Members are slightly older than on other sites, often from second time around relationships. match.com is more about general dating with a mix of singles looking for all sorts of different relationships. The average members are in their 30s, but there are quite a few younger, as well as more mature members. The variety of singles guarantees there is someone for everyone. Winner: match.com

3. Features

Both match.com and eharmony have lots of great features that make the user experience as fun and successful as possible. eharmony is famous for the relationship questionnaire that you need to complete before starting. This ensures you are only matched with highly compatible singles. match.com helps you write a fun, short profile and it’s very easy to generate matches and filer them accordingly. They also have a new Shuffle feature which turns finding matches into a simple game. Unlike eharmony, match.com like to get their members to meet up at face-to-face singles events. They have lots of different formats all over the UK.

However, you are more likely to avoid timewasters with eharmony as non-serious singles won’t bother with the lengthy sign up process. Winner: eharmony

4. Mobile Compatibility

eharmony and match.com have highly optimised mobile apps which are available to download from either the Apple Store or Google Play. This means you can use the apps on tablets, as well. The app allows you to read messages and respond quickly on-the-go. You can also upload photos easily from your phone’s image gallery. They both have real-time notifications so you know instantly if someone contacts you. It’s easier to get going with match.com as the sign up process is faster. Winner: match.com

5. Pricing

match.com and eharmony will both allow you to create a profile and browse the site for suitable matches. However, you will need to upgrade if you wish to contact anyone or read your messages. match.com charges £29.99 for one month, £59.97 for three months or a special offer price of £59.94 for six months. eharmony prices change throughout the year so the exact prices can vary. Regular fees are £45 for one month, £68.85 for three months or £155.70 for six months. While more expensive, eharmony often has “free communication” weekends where you are able to read and reply to your matches without charge. They are a great way to test the site before committing to payment. Winner: eharmony

6. Chat

Once you have upgraded, eharmony and match.com allow to chat and message other members. However, with eharmony you can’t just chat to anyone right away. Instead, they have “guided communication” which they claim makes your contact much more successful. You start with a series of ice-breaking questions which then allows you to message and chat if you are both happy to do so. With match.com, you are free to contact and chat to anyone you wish using their built in instant messenger. While Guided Communication can be useful to some people, we prefer the direct approach of straightforward messaging on match.com. Winner: match.com

7. Bottom Line

Both match.com and eharmony provide excellent facilities for singles to meet each other in a fun and safe environment. However, the quality of members on eharmony and the fact they are more serious about dating pushes them into the lead. Visit eharmony >>

About James Preece

James Preece is the Dating Guru. As the UK's leading Dating Expert and Dating Coach he is a consultant for many dating sites and is involved in a wide variety of different areas, such as personal dating coaching, Online Dating, speed dating and matchmaking. His online dating guide "I Will Make You Click" is an Amazon best seller, reaching number one on the relationships category. He is a regularly featured in top UK and international media: such as the Independent, Cosmopolitan, FHM, and Men’s Health, amongst many more. Learn more here.

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